Why the USA hosting the ICC T20 World Cup is a big deal

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It is well known that cricket is played primarily by South Asians on the east and west coasts of the USA. For those not aware, despite the harsh weather conditions in winter, the outskirts of Boston has an indoor cricket facility where locals play. There is a club culture there, where Indians and Pakistanis play together. There is no rivalry and hatred in these clubs. It is a clear sign that cricket, which is almost a religion in the subcontinent, has made its way into some American households.

Be sure, despite the biggest purse in history – the equivalent of $11.25 million – the ICC is not trying to change the way sports is consumed in the USA. For maybe another five years or even more, TV will continue to beam more images of NBA stars, the NFL and NHL. How and when cricket catches up is not important, for the same sport has been accepted in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics programme as well.

It is well known that traditional sports in the Summer Olympics have also needed to reinvent the wheel. Formats are changing in sport like basketball, with a conscious effort to make the viewing experience quicker. And, of course, the importance of gender equality, stressed on by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), can’t be understated.

That T20 cricket will offer Olympic medals is a clear sign the ICC has worked hard with the bosses of the LA 2028 programme and the IOC to merit inclusion. And for all those who think Virat Kohli is past his prime, he is a brand ambassador of sorts for the cricket in LA.

Back to New York, specifically the Nassau County Stadium, and tickets for the India and Pakistan matches have been grabbed like burgers and hot dogs. Black market ticket prices are soaring, as NRIs and other expatriate south Asians lap up the action. Last but not least, the USA putting together a cricket team capable of playing the big tournaments cannot be ignored.

If you still think a cricket World Cup in the USA is a gimmick, it’s time for a reality check.

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Source link : https://revsportz.in/why-the-usa-hosting-the-icc-t20-world-cup-is-a-big-deal/

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Publish date : 2024-06-04 04:29:02

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